What is the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is a court of law that has jurisdiction to prosecute individuals for the most serious crimes of international concern, such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. It works to bring justice to those who have been accused of these crimes, even if the nation in which they were committed does not or cannot prosecute the individuals. The ICC is based in The Hague, Netherlands and its jurisdiction extends to all countries that have ratified the Rome Statute, the document that created the court. In South Carolina, the U.S. Department of State works to implement ICC activities and promote understanding of international criminal law. It is engaged with the U.S. Congress on legislation and hearings involving the ICC, and it has established an Office of International Criminal Justice to provide legal guidance on international criminal law. The ICC is different from other criminal courts because it is not bound by any specific country’s laws or jurisdiction. It deals with cases that are deemed to be of international concern, and it has the authority to investigate cases across national borders. The ICC is also essential to upholding the rule of law, as it holds individuals accountable for their actions regardless of their political status. The ICC has the unique capability to prosecute international crimes and violations of international law. It serves as a deterrent to those who violate international legal norms and values, and it helps to restore peace and security to the international community.

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What is the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

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